The road to Valorant’s first international tournament of 2025 is heating up as teams worldwide battle for a spot in the VCT Masters Bangkok, which begins on February 20. Leading the charge, Trace Esports has made history as the first team to qualify, securing one of China’s two coveted slots in the tournament.
The Journey to Masters
The 2025 VCT season kicked off after a brief offseason marked by roster shuffles and high anticipation. Across the four major regions—China, Americas, EMEA, and Pacific—teams are vying for the chance to compete on the international stage.
The Masters Bangkok will host the top two teams from each region, bringing together eight of the world’s best to determine an early-season champion.
Trace Esports’ qualification comes as a surprise to many fans. While EDward Gaming (EDG), the reigning Valorant Champions 2024 winners, were favorites to claim the first spot, Trace Esports upset expectations. In the upper bracket of the Chinese VCT, Trace defeated EDG with a decisive 2-0 victory.
The roster, featuring Kai, Luok1ng, Biank, HeiB, and FenF, continued their dominance by beating Bilibili Gaming (BLG) in the upper bracket final, securing both their place in the Grand Final and their ticket to Masters Bangkok.
What’s Next for China’s Second Slot?
With Trace Esports already locked in, the battle for China’s second spot intensifies. The decider match between EDG and BLG will take place on January 24, with the winner joining Trace Esports as representatives of the region at Masters Bangkok.
Masters Bangkok: The Start of a New Era
The VCT Masters Bangkok marks the beginning of international competition in 2025, showcasing the best of Valorant talent worldwide. Fans eagerly await the tournament, where the world’s top eight teams will clash for glory.
Final Toughts
With Trace Esports already securing their position, the focus now shifts to the remaining qualifiers across all regions. As the tournament draws closer, the stage is set for a thrilling season opener in Bangkok.
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